About Diana

Applied psychologist in the superyacht industry

Work takes up a big part of our lives. That’s why I believe it should be a place where people feel seen and heard — and where they can contribute in a way that truly fits who they are. It’s good for them, and good for the organization.

 

I spent over ten years working in the superyacht industry, including eight years at Feadship — the benchmark for pure custom superyachts. I started as an Executive Assistant and gradually grew into the role of strategic sparring partner at senior leadership level. In a world that revolves around perfection, discretion and constant change,
I saw how to manage complex situations and perform under pressure. And I also learned how important it is to keep seeing the person behind the process. That people need space for their story — especially in environments where expectations run high.

 

I’m trained to understand and positively influence behavior in the workplace. To help create a healthy and honest work environment where people can do their job well and feel genuinely involved in what they do — and who they do it with.

 

Coaching in nature

In 2020, much of the world was in lockdown.
I had just completed my training as a Dog Assisted Coach with my Suisse White Ivy. During my daily walks with her, I always had had spontaneous conversations with people. But in these times I felt a stronger wish for connection.
Some wanted to talk about fears. Others were just looking for a chat.

That’s when the 'Luisterwandeling', or 'the Listening Walk' in english, began.

Walking makes it easier to talk.
You don’t have to look each other in the eye.
The rhythm helps you find the words.
And nature does the rest.

I still use this approach — for example, in the Insight Conversation.
Sometimes being outside is exactly what’s needed to look within.

Personal background

As the only child of a mother with a mild intellectual disability,
I developed a sharp eye for what goes on beneath the surface.
It’s no coincidence that all my studies focused on understanding human behavior.

People tend to open up to me quickly — and I genuinely enjoy listening to their stories. Over time, I discovered how powerful it is when someone feels truly heard. David Augsburger once said:
Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person, they are almost indistinguishable.
To me, it’s the simplest form of connection — something anyone can offer.
Real listening takes little effort. And has a big impact.

 

My strength and mission lie in having conversations that make a positive difference — for people and for the organizations they’re part of.

And yes, I believe in making space for laughter too - one of the wonderful things I learned from my mum. 
Especially when it’s about yourself.

 

Professional background

Registered Applied Psychologist (NBTP)
Certified Gallup CliftonStrengths Coach

Certified Dog Assisted Coach
Certified Analytical Psychology based on C.G. Jung

Training in Essential meditation, Transactional Analysis and systemic work

 

You can find more details on my LinkedIn.

 

Amterdam & Antibes

I live partly in the Netherlands and the South of France.
My work area includes Amsterdam, Antibes — and of course, online.

 

Sincerity - Presence - Awareness - Fun 

My core values are about doing what I do with genuine attention and a positive attitude.